Published September 4, 2015 at 3:58 PM Updated September 4, 2015 at 5:55 PM

Former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger played a major role with opening relations between China and the United States in the 1970’s. Now more than 40 years later, the American diplomat shares his thoughts about President Xi Jinping’s upcoming visit to the U.S., and China’s economy along with his own legacy.

Henry Kissinger is 92-years-old, and continues to work at his international consulting firm in New York City. His advice is still sought out by U.S. Presidents and world leaders.

Kissinger immigrated to the United States in 1938 from Germany, and served in the U.S. army in World War II. He was also a member of the faculty at Harvard University.

He served as U.S. National Security Adviser and U.S. Secretary of State for the Nixon and Ford Administrations. In 1971, Kissinger made two secret trips to China, paving the way for the historic trip to Beijing by President Richard Nixon in 1972.

He was also awarded a Nobel Peace Prize in 1973 for negotiations that helped end the Vietnam War.

Over the years, Henry Kissinger has traveled to China more than fifty times, and is the author of numerous books including “On China.”

Kissinger joined The Heat from his office in New York.

The Heat: Henry Kissinger on the U.S. and China pt. 1

The Heat: Henry Kissinger on the U.S. and China pt. 1

Former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger played a major role with opening relations between China and the United States in the 1970's.Now more than 40 years later, the American diplomat shares his thoughts about President Xi Jinping's upcoming visit to the U.S., China's economy and his own legacy.

To discuss Kissinger’s impact on China-U.S. relations:

Victor Gao is a former translator for Deng Xiaoping, a former leader of China.

The Heat: Henry Kissinger on the U.S. and China pt. 2

The Heat: Henry Kissinger on the U.S. and China pt. 2

Former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger played a major role with opening relations between China and the United States in the 1970's.Now more than 40 years later, the American diplomat shares his thoughts about President Xi Jinping's upcoming visit to the U.S., China's economy and his own legacy. The Heat discussed Kissinger's impact on China-U.S. relations with Victor Gao, former translator for Deng Xiaoping, former leader of China.